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Charred Wooden Shingles Blend Seamlessly With Concrete and Glass In A Nature-Focused Visitor Hub

Authors:
Taehoon Kim, Suhyun Hwang, Junbeom Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles Blend Seamlessly With Concrete and Glass In A Nature-Focused Visitor Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability, the design uniquely integrates charred wooden shingles with a concrete and glass structure, creating a seamless connection to the natural environment while serving as a vital educational hub for visitors exploring Kemeru National Park.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof garden mimics the natural topography of Kemeru National Park, enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles offer both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability, reducing maintenance needs.
03
The design features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Vertical circulation is organized around a central trunk structure, facilitating intuitive movement throughout the center.
05
Open-air exhibition spaces encourage community interaction and educational programming, connecting visitors directly with nature.
The Stump Visitor Center is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located within Kemeru National Park in Latvia. This center serves a dual purpose: it acts as an informative gateway for visitors while simultaneously reflecting the natural beauty and ecological significance of its surroundings. The architecture of the visitor center embodies the concept of a tree stump, symbolizing resilience and a deep-rooted connection to nature. This metaphor not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the structure but also promotes a narrative centered on growth, regeneration, and the intertwining of human experience with the natural world.

The primary function of the Stump Visitor Center is to provide visitors with educational resources and areas for engagement, enriching their understanding of the diverse ecosystems within the national park. Through its various spaces, the building facilitates activities such as exhibitions, community events, and guided tours that further visitors' appreciation of the local environment. The design promotes an interactive experience, where individuals can immerse themselves in nature while learning about conservation efforts, biodiversity, and the unique attributes of Kemeru National Park.

Key elements of the design include a roof garden that serves as both an observation point and social space, fostering community interactions. The organic shape and topography of the roof garden reflect the natural contours of the park's landscape, blending the structure within its environment. Vertical circulation is another significant aspect of the design, allowing visitors to navigate easily between different levels of the building. The central trunk-like structure, reminiscent of a tree, not only supports the architecture but facilitates intuitive movement, connecting various functional areas seamlessly.

Open-air spaces are integrated throughout the project, providing areas for congregation and outdoor exhibitions. By encouraging social interaction in these environments, the design underscores the importance of communal connections and shared experiences among visitors. Additionally, these spaces allow individuals to engage more fully with the natural setting, reinforcing the building's role as a bridge between architecture and the outdoors.

Sustainability is a fundamental consideration in the project, and the choice of materials reflects this commitment to environmental stewardship. The construction incorporates concrete for its durability, steel for structural support, and glass to ensure ample natural light illuminates the interior spaces. The transparency offered by the glass elements enhances the connection with the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

The Stump Visitor Center is distinguished by its unique design approaches, which include the use of organic forms and a focus on community engagement. The architectural language employed in this project reinforces the idea that built environments can coexist harmoniously with nature. By mirroring the shapes and textures found in the natural world, the building acknowledges and celebrates Latvia's cultural and ecological heritages.

In considering the Stump Visitor Center, it becomes apparent that this architectural project serves not only as a facility for visitors but also as a symbol of the importance of environmental awareness and cultural appreciation. For those interested in gaining further insights into the architectural designs, plans, and sections, exploring the project presentation will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas that underpin this compelling visitor center.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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